You’re invited…to memorable dining

byMary Wynn RyanonNovember 26, 2013

Corsica Rectangle Pedestal Dining Table

You invest a lot of loving effort in making holiday meals something to remember. So make sure your dining tables and dining room buffets are just as inviting. On the menu: Comfortable dining room chairs that encourage guests to linger and laugh long after dessert…a table (or two) that holds everyone even if your dining room is not a palace…and at least one practical, ample storage and display piece that defines your style.

If you don’t have a matching dinner service for dozens, don’t fret; mix it up. It’s fine if serving bowls don’t match dinner plates, and it’s traditional to have salad plates, dessert plates and coffee sets contrast with your regular dinnerware. Try to keep the same items in the same style, but if you don’t have enough (most of us don’t) here’s the trick: just alternate styles from one place setting to the next so the pattern looks purposeful. (You can do the same with glassware and flatware.)

Same goes for your dining room furniture. Pieces can match or mix, and heirlooms can work with new pieces in the same mood. Today’s dining furniture collections are intentionally designed in an eclectic fashion. For example, Hooker Furniture’s new Corsica furniture for dining room suggests mixing up the dining table and chairs, with the table in a dark espresso finish and the chairs in a lighter natural finish.

The 54-inch round Corsica dining table is in a dark espresso finish, while the chairs are in natural

Other popular options are a table from one suite paired with chairs from another; or host and hostess chairs that contrast a bit from guest chairs, or a show-stopping credenza or china cabinet in a different but compatible style. Buying everything from one group often offers the best value, and that’s fine, too. Here are some distinctive looks that will earn applause for your style as well as your cooking!

Chic Coterie round pedestal dining table

For a smaller dining room or an extra dining spot in any room, a round table is friendly and space-saving. This 48-in.-diameter example is from the Chic Coterie Collection. The new line, inspired by Pinterest, blends fashion and function to flatter today’s casual-yet-elegant lifestyle. As a point of interest, the Chic Coterie home office group just won a 2013 Pinnacle Design award, the highest award given for furniture design.

Urn console is inviting as room divider or buffet

In a small dining area, skip the big breakfront or buffet in favor of a classic console. Whether your style is beachfront romantic or manor house opulent, this console makes a statement that’s dramatic but never heavy. And no matter where you live over the years, it will always fit in and say nice things about your sense of style. Just add a pair of tall, slender buffet lamps and you’re ready for company!

Sorella shaped credenza

Your dining room should tell a story that showcases your hospitality, and nothing says welcome like a dining credenza. This shaped credenza from the Sorella Collection offers sinuous curves, classic dentil molding and pretty details that are elegant. Yet, it’s the unique finish that makes Sorella romantic. The artful finish is taupe-toned and antiqued over a light washed-white tint for a reclaimed wood look. Your story is just starting!

Copper-top table from the Sanctuary collection

Rich, dark ebony-finished wood crowned with a gleaming antiqued copper top makes a dining table to treasure! The Sanctuary 60-inch-round pedestal dining table recalls the rustic yet refined look of classic American style; perfect for Thanksgiving and other family celebrations. Warmth, drama, comfort: What more can you ask?